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“Even if the open windows of science at first make us shiver after the cozy indoor warmth of traditional humanizing myths, in the end the fresh air brings vigor, and the great spaces have a splendor of their own.”
What is philosophical naturalism and why name my blog after it?* Put simply, naturalism is the belief that the material world that we call “nature” comprises all that is. Philosophical naturalists don’t believe there is good reason to believe in gods, ghosts, immaterial souls or spirits. They maintain that the material world (time, space, matter, and energy) encapsulates reality. Consequently, naturalists believe that we as humans define our own meaning and purpose in life as opposed to having it dictated by or derived from an outside supernatural force. Most naturalists are also secular humanists, finding life’s meaning to be rooted in the well-being of humans, animals, and the earth.
Many people claim that a naturalistic worldview leads inevitably to despair and nihilism. They argue that it shortchanges human existence and purpose. I disagree, and aim to show otherwise in a fun yet engaging way. My journey from Christianity to skepticism took place over the course of a number of years and many have asked me about my experience. I don’t claim to have discovered all the answers, but I do revel in all the questions.
Thanks for visiting!
Warmest regards,
Louis (aka “Lou,” “Louie,” “Lucho”)
*I must credit the blog Common Sense Atheism for the term “Enchanted Naturalist,” where I first encountered it in that blogger’s post in response to this article.
aka Senor?
You got me, Steve. Sorry about that. How could I forget about you?!
… or the proverbial “Lou Lou”; so quickly we forget?!
Ah, but of course! Thanks, L.J.R.!